Top articles for the 50th UPU international letter writing competition in 2021

Top articles for the 50th UPU international letter writing competition in 2021

1. Topic of the 50th UPU International Letter Writing Competition in 2021

Based on the most significant current events of 2020, the 50th UPU International Letter Writing Competition has announced the topic: 'Write a letter to a family member to share your experience of the COVID-19 pandemic'. (In English: 'Write a letter to a family member about your experience of the COVID-19 pandemic').

2. Rules of the 50th UPU International Letter Writing Competition in 2021

- Participants: Nationwide students under the age of 15.
- Competition requirements:

• Entries should be in the form of a letter, not exceeding 800 words, and must not have been previously published.
• For entries written in a foreign language, a Vietnamese translation must be provided.
• Handwritten entries should be neat and clear, on one side of the paper.
• In the top left corner, provide full information: Full name; Date of birth; Ethnicity; School address, class, district, city. Entries without complete information will be disqualified.
• Do not include your name, school, class, or address in the content of the entry.
• Entries must be the original work of the participant.

- Submission address: Pioneer Youth Newspaper, 5 Hoa Ma, Hanoi
- Submission period: From December 1, 2020, to February 28, 2021

3. Presentation Guidelines for the 50th UPU Competition (Entry Format)

- FORMAT 1:

- FORMAT 2:

4. Structure of the UPU Letter for the 50th Edition in 2021

a. Introduction of the letter

- Main points, time of writing the letter (Write on the right side of the paper)

Example:
Hanoi, 12th January 2021

- Greeting at the beginning of the letter (Send greetings to family members, it could be Grandfather, Grandmother, Father, Mother, Brother, Sister, etc.)

Example:
Dear beloved father!
Dear beloved mother!

b. Content Section

- State the purpose of the letter (From initial greetings, lead to the purpose, reason for writing the letter: Sharing experiences about the Covid-19 pandemic).
- Letter content: Share personal experiences (Awareness, thoughts, evaluations about the Covid pandemic; personal desires...)
Suggestions: You can share your understanding of the infection situation, transmission routes, danger level of the pandemic...
You can also share your personal desires to mitigate the impact of the pandemic: Increase public awareness of disease prevention, Take proactive isolation measures, report health status when suspecting infection; unite the nation....
- Closing remarks to the recipient.

c. Closing Section of the Letter

Signature of the letter writer along with affectionate address

Example:
Daddy's little girl
Doan Hanh Nguyen

5. Top entries for the 50th UPU International Letter Writing Competition in 2021

Letter to older sister sharing experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic (Standard)

Hanoi, 12th January 2021

Dear beloved older sister!

So it's been nearly a year since you went to Japan to study, this is the first time you've been away from home for so long, especially with the Covid pandemic raging as it is now, me and everyone at home are worried and miss you a lot.

Through the daily news program, I learned that Japan is also one of the countries heavily affected by the pandemic. Over there, you are trying to study well and especially take good care of your health. Covid-19 has spread and caused serious consequences for humanity throughout the past year. The Covid pandemic spreads very quickly and directly affects the human respiratory system, so please limit unnecessary outings.

When going to school and going out, remember to wear a mask, use hand sanitizer, and maintain a safe distance to prevent the spread of the disease. At home, everyone strictly adheres to the state's isolation regulations, moreover, Dad also completes health declarations for all family members.

Due to the impact of the pandemic, Mom and Dad's work has been disrupted for 2 months, our family's economic situation has also fluctuated somewhat but I still feel lucky and happy because everyone is healthy and together we overcome this difficult period. Stay strong over there, sis.

The letter has grown long, so I'll stop writing here. Please take care of your health and study well, sister. The whole family loves you and looks forward to hearing from you.

Your little sister,
Nguyen Phuong Chi

Letter to Dad sharing experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic

Da Nang, on ...th ... month ... year ...

Dear Dad!

It's been a whole month since I last saw you. I miss you so much, so I decided to write this letter.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic broke out, it has caused everyone to worry and panic. Everything has been turned upside down. If it weren't for it, you would have been back home a week ago after your long business trip.

Because of the pandemic, both mom and I haven't been going to school but studying at home. Although there are many difficulties and inconveniences, both of us are healthy. I have memorized all the recommendations from the Ministry of Health. Mom even printed them out and pasted them in front of the door to make sure we don't forget. I believe if everyone does the same, we will quickly push back the pandemic.

Mom said Dad only needs to stay in the quarantine camp for another 7 days before he can come home. I know Dad is very worried and homesick staying there. But Dad, please hang in there. Rest well and don't think too much. Just listen to the doctors, follow their instructions, and everything will be fine. Then Dad will come home, and our family will reunite happily. Dad promises me, right?

Dad's son

Minh
Bui Hoang Minh

Letter to Mom sharing experiences of the Covid-19 pandemic

Hanoi, date ... month ... year ...

Beloved Mom!

It's been 3 weeks since I last saw you. Since the Covid-19 pandemic erupted, you've been tirelessly working at the hospital. To ensure everyone's safety, you couldn't come home. However, don't worry too much about me and Dad. Currently, I've been studying at home while Dad continues to work as usual. Nevertheless, both Dad and I always strictly adhere to the health ministry's recommendations and your advice. Wherever we go, Dad and I wear masks and frequently sanitize our hands. And of course, both Dad and I are very healthy.

So, Mom, don't worry too much, but take care of your health and focus on your work. I know you must be very tired and homesick right now. Dad and I miss you a lot too. However, we must try to overcome this together. I believe that we will successfully defeat this pandemic. When that day comes, Dad and I will come to the hospital to bring you home. Mom, promise me that you'll always take care of your health and stay optimistic. Will you?

My beloved daughter,
Ngoc Bich

Writing a letter to grandmother sharing about the Covid 19 pandemic

Isolation Area, date ... month 12 year 2021

Dear Grandma!

How are you feeling today, Grandma? Have you been eating well? The weather has turned cold and dry as winter approaches, so please remember to wear extra layers and drink plenty of warm water!

I'm doing fine here in isolation, still being well taken care of by the staff. I receive three meals a day, have enough clothes to wear, and wear a mask regularly except during meals. Every two to three days, doctors fully covered in protective gear come to take my blood for testing. Thankfully, I have tested negative for the coronavirus so far.

Initially, when I first received the isolation order, I was very anxious and fearful, Grandma! I didn't know if I would get sick or if the virus would overcome me... Excessive worrying visibly took a toll on me. After a few days of disturbed sleep and decreased appetite, the doctors advised me to stay calm, exercise, and eat nutritious food to boost my health and defeat the virus. Hearing this, I felt somewhat reassured.

Here in this isolation area, each person has their own spacious room. I still often check the news on my phone and see that the pandemic situation is escalating rapidly. Although the authorities have issued an urgent lockdown order for the entire city, the number of cases continues to rise. Never before have we seen such a surge in infections within such a short period, putting a tremendous strain on the national healthcare system. Hospitals are short of doctors, masks, ventilators, and protective equipment, exacerbating the situation.

Millions have died, and thousands continue to be infected by this dangerous coronavirus every day. So, in the countryside, please try to follow the health recommendations to take care of yourself. Such as limiting outdoor activities, avoiding crowded places, always wearing a mask, frequently sanitizing hands... We'll come visit you in the countryside as soon as the pandemic is over. You'll stroke my hair again and whisper stories from the old days. Deal, Grandma?

Your beloved granddaughter
Tu Anh

Writing a letter to my older brother sharing experiences about the Covid 19 pandemic

Hue, on ... day ... month ... year ...

Dear Minh,

Today, after learning about the temporary lockdown in Da Nang, you can't come home. Everyone at home is worried, so I decided to write you a letter.
Watching TV and reading the news, I understand the fear of the Corona virus to some extent. It spreads rapidly and seriously affects human health. Wherever it appears, people live in anxiety and fear. You must be feeling the same in Da Nang now, right?
Everyone at home is fine. Thanks to the timely measures taken by the authorities, there's nothing to worry about. The most important thing is you. In Da Nang, please follow all the health recommendations. Normally, you're an active person, enjoying going out. But during this time, try to stay home to avoid getting infected. It may be inconvenient, but it'll be very safe. I believe that if everyone cooperates, we can quickly defeat the pandemic.

So, stay strong and take care of yourself! Mom, Dad, and I are waiting for you to come back home, celebrating the day our country defeats Covid-19.

Your younger brother

Dear Mom and Dad,

Writing a Letter to Mom and Dad to Share about the Covid-19 Pandemic

Hanoi, Date... Month... 2020

Beloved Mom and Dad!

It's been a long time since I wrote a letter to Mom and Dad, partly because of my busy work and partly because I've been too indifferent to truly care about you both.

Lately, are you both doing well at home, and is everything going smoothly? My work here is still normal, but due to the Covid pandemic, it's been slightly affected. When you go out, remember to wear masks and sanitize your hands, as this Covid situation is very dangerous, and I worry a lot about you both. Every time I watch the news and see reports of people infected with Covid near our area, my heart fills with anxiety. I just hope this pandemic ends soon so that everyone can be safe and the economy can recover.

Recently, my company has allowed me to work from home, so please don't worry. Even though I'm working from home, I still complete my work well and ensure my livelihood. The local authorities here are very supportive, constantly reminding and promoting measures for everyone to join hands in combating the pandemic, so the epidemic prevention work where I am is always ensured. I also go out less and avoid crowded places. Occasionally, I go to the market to buy food for the whole week.

Currently, the whole country is working together to fight Covid, so I just want to contribute my small part to raise awareness and prevent the spread of the disease. Hopefully, with the active support of the government, our country will defeat the Covid epidemic, so that I can focus more on my work knowing that you both are always healthy.

At the end of this letter, I wish Mom and Dad good health to always be a strong support for their beloved daughter. Let's all together determine to push back the Covid pandemic, Mom and Dad. I love you both!

Beloved daughter of Mom and Dad
Tran Dieu Nhi

Writing a letter to Uncle sharing about the Covid 19 pandemic

Hanoi, date ..... month ..... year 2021

Dearest Uncle Hung!

Dear Uncle, how are things with the pandemic over in Russia? Are you still keeping well? With such freezing cold in the land of snow and ice, make sure to dress warmly! I'm not fully aware of the situation of the epidemic over there, but let me tell you about the Covid-19 virus right here in Vietnam, right within our family.

You know, a few days after the Lunar New Year, I heard on TV and radio about the appearance of the Corona virus, said to be found in the city of Wuhan - China. Initially, our family remained quite calm. Even I didn't take any precautions, thinking it was just a type of flu-like virus. However, within just a few days, there were sudden deaths. Seeing videos of men walking normally on the street suddenly collapsing and dying, I became deeply afraid. How could such a tiny virus kill people like that? I was panic-stricken, rushing to social media to search for news. But then, I became even more panicked because on social media, anyone with a smartphone could livestream from home and claim to be in Wuhan - China, causing unnecessary panic for hundreds of thousands of people. I wondered why they were so cruel? Just for views and likes, they brought anxiety to the public, spreading false rumors, making it difficult for epidemic prevention efforts. Knowing I couldn't trust self-made videos on social media, I only followed 'official' news from state-run VTV channels, reputable newspapers. I diligently updated myself with news every day.

In just one week, the number of infected and dead people has risen sharply. Because this is an airborne virus, very difficult to control, combined with people's initial complacency, it spread rapidly like that. Everyone was talking about Covid-19, all over the internet was updating about this topic, the whole world was buzzing because of Covid.

Even within my family, from grandparents to parents, everyone knows the danger of the pandemic. Hence, they constantly remind us to keep warm. My parents are more concerned about our diet, always emphasizing the importance of eating well-cooked food to ensure good health. As the pandemic worsens by the day, hitting hard in Vietnam, people are in a frenzy. Every supermarket, market, and corner store is swarmed with people rushing to buy groceries, meat, instant noodles, soap for handwashing, you name it. Pushing and shoving, everyone is trying to grab as much as they can, as fast as they can. Especially concerning are the face masks. Initially deemed unnecessary by many, they are now in high demand. Stores are packed with people, and counterfeit and low-quality masks flood the market, with prices skyrocketing four or five times higher than usual. But despite the chaos, people are still willing to stock up, ensuring they stay healthy, right? Oh, and please remember to wear your mask, too, uncle, protecting ourselves from these little things matters!

The most worrisome aspect is the issue of food supply. Especially when the Prime Minister announced a nationwide 14-day self-isolation, I became even more anxious. I find myself checking the rice container several times a day, fearing we might run out. Then I'd rummage through the fridge multiple times to see if we still have meat, fresh vegetables. With all the supermarkets closed, nobody knows how long this pandemic will last. Whenever my grandmother sees me fretting in the kitchen, she reassures me, telling me not to worry because she stocked up on groceries before the outbreak. It eases my mind a bit, but I still notice our meals are becoming simpler, with less meat and more vegetables. Yet, it still feels warm and comforting, our family dinners, doesn't it, uncle?

For us, school kids, waiting for the daily news, hoping for the Ministry of Education to announce school closures feels like a holiday every day. We get to stay home, indulge in eating and sleeping, making up for all those early school mornings. Yet, we still study online at home, just needing a device connected to the internet to reunite with our teachers and classmates, it's incredibly delightful. Online learning is so convenient, uncle; we no longer have to bike to faraway schools, just sit at home and study. No rain pouring on us, no scorching sun, these are the memories of our Covid days!

Despite spending most of our days at home, eating and sleeping, we don't forget to exercise. Every day, my siblings and I compete in workouts, following videos on TV, not only improving our health but also bonding with each other. It's so much fun, uncle. What's even happier is that I have more time for my family now. Before, I would come home from school, eat quickly, then bury myself in books. But now, I eat slower, share more stories with my grandparents, watch movies with my whole family, it's warm and blissful. At this moment, I am grateful for the Corona virus; thanks to it, my family has become closer, memories flooding back as I write these lines. I just wish you could come back to Vietnam soon and join us in our warm family gatherings.

The number of deaths continues to rise rapidly worldwide. People are dying in hospitals, makeshift camps, the count is beyond measure. Seeing those scenes on TV, it breaks my heart. Indeed, life is precious, neglecting it slips away from our grasp. I've learned to cherish this transient life. Finding meaning in family, in warmth and reunions, that's where I find purpose in my life.

Uncle, please take care of your health! Wear warm clothes, and when Grandma and Grandpa ask about your well-being and work, don't worry. I'm trying to help them lighten the household chores burden. Just focus on your work, occasionally give them a call, that's enough. I look forward to the day you return.

I've shared some of my Covid experiences with you, uncle, but there are many more stories to tell. However, I'll save them for another letter. Take care of your health! I need to study now; it's time for my lessons. Goodbye, uncle! How's the situation with Covid in Russia? Please write and let me know. I await your letter.

Best regards,
Your granddaughter

Letter to Grandpa Lost to the Covid-19 Pandemic

Below is a heartfelt letter from a student to their beloved grandfather. It encapsulates genuine emotions, love, and profound sorrow for the loss due to Covid-19. Let's read to witness the loving sentiments of the grandchild and the danger posed by Covid-19.

Hanoi, February 3, 2021

Respected Grandfather,

When dad informed me that grandpa tested positive for Covid-19, I thought it was just like any other illness, similar to his occasional backaches, headaches, or knee pains. But when the healthcare workers arrived at our house, taking the whole family to quarantine and disinfecting our beloved home, I realized grandpa's condition was far from simple.

So, our entire family, including 5-month-old baby Thỏ, went into quarantine together. Later, mom told me that the initial days in quarantine were tough because Thỏ wasn't used to the new environment and cried inconsolably. Mom even tried to get us home because she hadn't been in direct contact with grandpa during his illness, but the nurse warned that her return could pose a danger to the community. Mom and dad said Thỏ and I were special witnesses to the Covid fight, grandpa.

During the quarantine days, I casually read comics and slept, not thinking much, until we were informed of grandpa's passing. The doctor said he had an underlying condition, coupled with Covid-19 infection, making it unbearable.

I cried endlessly, insisting the nurse let me see grandpa one last time, but she said he had been moved and warned me that it was dangerous at this time. She told me to be good, not to cry, and that grandpa would only be happy in heaven if I didn't. I remember the afternoons when grandpa walked to school to pick me up, and sometimes I'd nag him to buy me snacks from here to there. I loved sitting in his lap, listening to his stories of his difficult school days, how he persevered through hardships yet excelled in everything. Mom said as long as I inherit a part of grandpa's learning, she'd be at peace.

You've always been the backbone of our family, navigating us safely through every adversity. I remember when Uncle Đặng fell victim to a scam, facing financial loss, yet you stepped in, securing a way to reclaim his lost money. You often told him and dad that as men, it's crucial to be a solid support for their families, to lead by example for their children to follow.

I recall the times I got low grades, trembling in fear in the corner of the classroom, afraid to go home because of mom's scolding. You waited at the gate for me, and when I didn't come out, you came looking for me, knowing the situation. You even took me out for grilled skewers and talked to me like we were friends. You reminded me that everyone experiences failure, but what matters is recognizing our mistakes and striving to correct them, that's what's truly valuable...

I never thought our family would face such a situation. The pain surpasses endurance, but thinking of your teachings, I promised myself to stay strong.

It's been nearly 100 days since you passed away, yet the pandemic still looms over humanity. I only hope that the Covid-19 vaccine trials in Vietnam will be successful, so no family will endure the agony like ours.

Each person only has one life to live, I will adhere to preventive measures and study diligently to become a skilled doctor to save lives in the future. Far away from you, grandpa, rest assured!

Your grandson,
Minh Quân

Writing a letter to my younger sister to share my experience of the COVID-19 pandemic

Bình Định, February 3, 2021

My dear beloved younger sister!

At the outset of this letter, I want to inquire about your health. It's been a while since we've taken the time to converse with each other through handwritten letters. Isn't it true that the modern convenience of technology has made us lazy? Therefore, today, I want to write you a letter to share a few things. I'm confident that when you read this letter, you'll feel the appreciation I have for you and take the time to reflect on what I'm about to share.

At the time of writing this letter, our country and the world are facing the Covid-19 pandemic. A dreadful pandemic that has claimed the lives of thousands. But amidst this dreadful pandemic, I've learned many meaningful lessons. The pandemic not only causes loss of human lives and economic benefits. Let's try to look at it from a positive perspective; it also leaves behind many lessons for human consciousness.

Firstly, Covid-19 has helped us reassess our own attitudes towards life. In life, many people often use the excuse that there is still plenty of time to do this or that, delaying the tasks they want to accomplish. It's only when the pandemic occurs and claims the lives of so many in an instant that people realize how short life really is. The time we thought we had in abundance will eventually run out. From that, we learn to cherish time more, to strive to live life to the fullest.

My beloved younger sister, have you ever felt that the period of social distancing has passed by meaninglessly? Many people have consistently felt frustrated and uncomfortable being indoors for too long. They find themselves trapped within their own homes not knowing what to do in a day. Or they have to repeat the same tasks day after day. But for us, it's different. We've had truly meaningful moments with our parents, haven't we? You've had time to play chess with Dad - something you've always longed for before, but Dad was too busy with work to spend time playing with you. As for me, I've learned from Mom how to bake and cook. Our family has had warm meals and joyful conversations. Social distancing has helped everyone appreciate life and realize the importance of family. Happiness sometimes comes from simple things. And family bonds are the most important thing for humans.

Lastly, during the pandemic, we've also realized an extremely important issue for the world - environmental pollution. Many cities, after implementing social distancing, have reduced air pollution. Many rivers have become cleaner. Most importantly, people have become more aware of the importance of nature and have a greater sense of protection. Environmental protection is always a hot issue, but it's only during the pandemic that we've become more conscious of it.

There are many more lessons that I've learned after the pandemic, but these are the most valuable ones. I hope that when you read this letter, you'll understand what I want to share.

At the end of the letter, I wish you to study well, remember to strictly follow preventive measures. Let's both put our trust in our country with the determination to defeat the pandemic.

My dear older sister

A Letter to Adults about the Covid-19 Pandemic

A Letter to the Adults!

Currently, facing the rapidly increasing and complex situation of the Covid-19 pandemic caused by the Coronavirus, we need to have clear understanding to prevent and timely stop the escalating spread of the pandemic.

According to the latest statistics, the total number of new Corona virus infections worldwide has risen to over 40,000 people, with about 3,300 people confirmed to have recovered but over 900 people have died, mostly in China - the epicenter of the outbreak. In Vietnam, there have been 16 cases of corona virus infection, and this number continues to increase with no signs of stopping.

We must fully understand the origins as well as the symptoms of the disease and prevention methods to deal with this pandemic. The corona virus (nCoV) is a new type of respiratory virus that causes acute respiratory infections in humans and shows human-to-human transmission. Corona viruses, like MERS and SARS, all originate from animal hosts, primarily from bats. Corona virus is a large virus family, common in many different animal species including camels, cats, and bats.

This virus initially emerged from animal sources but has the ability to spread from person to person. Importantly, human-to-human transmission can occur continuously. In humans, the virus is transmitted from person to person through contact with the body fluids of the sick person. Depending on the degree of virus transmission, coughing, sneezing, or handshaking may expose people nearby. The virus can also be transmitted when someone touches an object that the sick person has touched, then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes. Caregivers may also be exposed to the virus when handling patient waste.

Thus, there are 4 pathways for the transmission of this nCoV (corona) virus.

• Firstly, transmission through the air: exposure to saliva from coughing, sneezing, then the virus enters the respiratory tract.
• Secondly, direct transmission when in contact with the sick person, shaking hands when not implementing preventive measures such as hand washing...
• Thirdly, transmission when in contact with contaminated surfaces such as wood, stone, iron, steel, fabric,... with a long survival time, when humans touch those surfaces and then touch their eyes, nose, mouth, they are easily infected.
• Fourthly, transmission through feces, mainly from caring for the sick.

Estimates suggest that each person with COVID-19 can transmit the virus to at least 3 or 4 other people.

In fact, the transmission mechanism of this virus is more similar to H1N1 or flu than SARS. It can spread even when symptoms are still mild, even in people with no symptoms (asymptomatic). This means that these people can transmit the virus before becoming ill without being detected. Therefore, the number of COVID-19 infections continues to increase, an 'unprecedented spread'.

So what are the symptoms when infected with this virus? Pay attention to fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms can appear from 2 to 14 days after exposure to the source of the disease. At onset, nCoV can progress to severe pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death, especially in those with chronic diseases, immune suppression.

Therefore, to prevent the spread of the disease, we should pay attention to the following:

• Limit direct contact with people with acute respiratory infections; when necessary, those in contact with patients should wear masks properly and maintain a distance.
• Keep the body warm, practice personal hygiene, wash hands frequently with soap, gargle with mouthwash to prevent pneumonia.
• Cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, preferably with a cloth or tissue to reduce the spread of respiratory secretions.
• Avoid close contact with animal farms or wildlife.
• Avoid traveling to epidemic areas. Limit visits to crowded places.
• When visiting crowded places, implement personal protective measures such as using masks, washing hands with soap...

I hope we have an understanding of this disease to not only help ourselves but also join the entire community in fighting the pandemic caused by the coronavirus for humanity.

Once again, I sincerely hope that each of us – adults, come together to protect our health for a world without epidemics.

""""""-THE END""""""---

In order to enhance their writing skills for the international UPU competition and gain valuable insights for the 50th UPU essay contest in 2021 on the theme of the Covid-19 pandemic, students should not overlook useful reference materials such as: Writing techniques for UPU letters or the essay Writing for the 49th UPU letter contest in 2020 Sending a message to adults about the Covid-19 virus on Mytour.